A Range Rover driver was viciously attacked by an "abhorrent" gang of young men wielding golf clubs and other weapons in Hamilton, leaving him seriously injured.

Detectives said a group of four of five youths launched the "extremely violent and targeted attack" at approximately 9.45pm on Thursday night as the 44-year-old man got out his car.

The armed gang, who are all described as white and between 18 and 25, assaulted the victim causing serious injuries to his head and face as well as significant bruising and swelling to his body.

The incident took place at the junction of Backmuir Road and Whistleberry Drive, and only ended when neighbours in the residential estate came to help the injured man - prompting the attackers to flee along Whistleberry Crescent.

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Emergency services were called to the scene and paramedics took the beaten man to Hairmyres Hospital by ambulance, where staff said his condition is now stable.

Police Scotland have issued an urgent appeal for witnesses and anyone who may be able to identify the culprits.

Describing the suspects, the force said the first is of slim build with short fair hair and was wearing a black hoodie. The second is also of slim build, had short dark hair and was wearing a black zipped top.

A medium-build youth wore a Nike hoodie and had long dark hair "flopped at the front", while the other suspects were also thought to be wearing dark clothing.

Detective Constable John Law said: "This was an extremely violent and targeted attack on the victim and it is vital that anyone with information which could help us trace the abhorrent individuals responsible comes forward.

"I would appeal to anyone who was in the area and either witnessed what happened or noticed a group of young men matching the above descriptions to please get in touch.

"Additional patrols will be in the area to provided reassurance to the local community and I would urge anyone with concerns to approach the officers who will be happy to speak with them."

Anyone with information is asked to contact Cambuslang CID on 101, quoting incident number 3548 of Thursday 3 January 2019.